LAKE MARY, FL — HNTB, an infrastructure solutions firm, has been recognized with the 2025 Grand Conceptor Award by the American Council of Engineering Companies of Florida (ACEC Florida) for its work on the Brightline Florida East-West Connector project. The ACEC Florida Grand Conceptor Award is given to the year’s most outstanding engineering achievement in Florida. HNTB provided final design and program management on the project.

HNTB partnered with Brightline Florida to deliver the East-West Connector, a private intercity passenger railroad system spanning 38 route miles between Cocoa, Florida, and the Orlando International Airport. The infrastructure project provided the final link between Miami and Orlando, Florida, and included the design and construction of 32 new bridges, comprehensive grading and drainage systems, advanced communications and signal layouts, and extensive utility relocations. The project opened to passengers in September 2023.

“We are honored to have partnered with Brightline Florida on the East-West Connector project,” said George Gilhooley, HNTB’s East Florida Office Leader and Senior Vice President. “Brightline’s vision for a connected Florida has transformed the state. We are incredibly proud to have helped bring this project to life.”

“The East-West Connector is an essential transportation link, providing sustainable, efficient travel from Miami to Orlando,” said John Hornbeck, HNTB’s Project Director for the East-West Connector. “We are thrilled to have a positive impact on the communities where we work and live.”